In a recent interview with Ultimate Guitar, Kirk Hammett, the lead guitarist of the legendary heavy metal band Metallica, openly expressed his boredom with playing the band’s classic solos. This frustration has led him to take a new approach with Metallica’s forthcoming album, ’72 Seasons,’ opting for a more improvisational and creative style.
Hammett admitted that playing iconic solos such as the one from ‘Master of Puppets’ note-per-note during live shows has become monotonous, and he’s ready to break away from the constraints of replicating the recorded versions. This creative fatigue has ultimately inspired Hammett to explore new musical avenues and offers fans a fresh experience at Metallica’s concerts.
In the upcoming album ’72 Seasons,’ Hammett has deliberately chosen to improvise 20 to 30 solos and allow drummer Lars Ulrich and producer Greg Fidelman to edit them. This new approach is not only aimed at giving fans a different experience on the record but also providing Hammett the freedom to improvise during live shows, creating a unique performance each time.
Kirk Hammett’s words about trying something new with the new album read:
“With this album, I went in intentionally to improvise 20, 30 solos, give them all to Lars [Ulrich] and Greg [Fidelman, producer], and go, ‘You guys edit them!’
I know I’m going to play something completely different live. That’s my thing these days, and if people don’t like it, that’s just tough. But I can offer something a lot different than what people hear on the album, and I can offer something different every time you see Metallica.”
He added:
“When you buy a ticket to a Metallica show, you’ll hear different versions of the songs. You’re not going to hear carbon copy versions of the album.
Usually, I surprise myself; sometimes, I die a fucking death. It’s horrible to die on stage in front of 50,000 people, but it only lasts an instant, and then it’s gone. Then I can go to other pastures and make up for what I didn’t do.”
This bold move by Kirk indicates that Metallica is unafraid of breaking traditions and pushing its creative boundaries. As fans eagerly await the release of ’72 Seasons,’ they can look forward to experiencing a new chapter in Metallica’s storied career, complete with unique live performances that showcase the band’s evolving artistry. The band also released the title track of their upcoming album, which will be released on April 14, further highlighting the creative changes Hammett has identified.
